However, in a statement on Facebook yesterday he said: “After 15 years of struggle Victoria now has Adoption Equality. I pay tribute to the work of gender diverse and same-sex families in achieving this milestone.

“Whilst the work of equality is never done this is a major milestone. Above all it is to recognise the rights of children and loving parents.”

Opposition spokesman for Equality, David Davis, said the religious exemption was not discriminatory, and he believed that same-sex couples would be happy with the outcome.

“Same-sex couples will be able to get services that they need … this is obviously a balance to be struck, and the balance has been carefully thought through by the Legislative Council,” he said.